Gang Canal Centenary to Be Marked with Year-Long Awareness Campaign: CM Bhajanlal Sharma

Jaipur, May 2026 : Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma chaired an important meeting to review preparations for the centenary celebrations of the historic Gang Canal, often regarded as the lifeline of western Rajasthan. Marking 100 years since its construction, the state government plans to turn the occasion into a large-scale public awareness campaign focused on water conservation and farmer engagement.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister directed officials to organise regular events at key locations associated with the canal system, including the Shivpur Head and other major head regulators. He emphasised the need for sustained public participation, with activities to be conducted throughout the year across regions connected to the canal network.

As part of the centenary celebrations, special outreach programmes will be held in 12 agricultural mandis within the canal command area. These programmes will focus on direct interaction with farmers, where experts will provide guidance on modern irrigation techniques, including drip irrigation systems, efficient water usage, and conservation practices.

The initiative will also include activities such as canal cleaning drives, recognition of outstanding water user associations, and public awareness campaigns. Creative efforts like cycle rallies and street plays on water conservation are planned to engage citizens and spread awareness at the grassroots level.

The Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure effective implementation of all planned programmes so that the centenary celebrations evolve into a meaningful campaign promoting sustainable water management and community participation.

The Gang Canal holds immense historical significance. Its construction was initiated on December 5, 1925, under the leadership of Maharaja Ganga Singh. The canal became operational on October 26, 1927, when water first reached the Shivpur Head. To commemorate this milestone, the state government has planned a series of events from October 26, 2026, to October 26, 2027.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary V. Srinivas, Additional Chief Secretary (Water Resources) Abhay Kumar, and other senior officials, who reviewed the roadmap for executing the centenary celebrations successfully.